Imagery

Imagery can be very useful in creating positive mental experiences that will manifest in performance following injury. Imagery can be used to replay past positive experiences, visualize what you want to happen, or as healing imagery to imagine the injured area getting stronger. PDF scripts for all of these, and more, can be found in the “resources” section.

Ideal Situation

The following imagery is based on a golfer who is recovering from an ankle injury. This type of imagery can help to create positive pathways for neurons in the brain, so when they return to sport, they will have success.

Previous Experience

Using imagery of events that were positive or negative, with a new positive outcome, can reinforce positive experiences. This particular script is based on the day the athlete obtained their injury, however this can also be based on their best performance (see best performance worksheet in the confidence section to guide that script.

Healing Imagery

Healing imagery is especially effective in the early stages of rehab. It is when the individual imagines their injured area healing at the skeletal, musculoskeletal, or even cellular level. In order for this imagery to be successful, the individual needs to have a good understanding of their injury. The following script is a general idea of what a healing imagery should sound like, and can be altered to be specific to certain injuries.

PMR

Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) can be used to improve relaxation and body awareness, which is important when returning to sport. When beginning PRM, practice in a quiet, calm room where you will not be distracted by anything else. As you become more comfortable, begin working on the progression in louder or more game like environments.